Pretoria – Cabinet has welcomed the launch of the Small Claims Court in Soweto, calling it a significant milestone.
In a statement issued by Government Communications (GCIS) on Friday, following Cabinet’s ordinary meeting this week, Cabinet said the opening of the Small Claims Court at the Protea Magistrate Court was a “significant milestone in our quest to ensure access to justice for all South Africans”.
The Court, which will be used to settle minor civil disputes and claims between parties in an informal manner without representation by an attorney, forms part of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development’s commitment to establish a Small Claims Court in every magisterial district country-wide.
Gauteng is the first province to have a Small Claims Court in all of the magisterial districts.
The Small Claims Court model is an effective dispute resolution mechanism which contributes towards the realisation of the Department’s mandate to ensure access to justice for all.
Since its first sitting in August 2012, the Protea Small Claims has received 550 applications, which constitutes property and monies matters, and finalised 181 matters.
The court was official opened by Justice Minister Jeff Radebe, who also held an imbizo with the community. – SAnews.gov.za
